'Epic Family Time' is the promise at this County Longford resort - the first Center Parcs property to open in Ireland. It brings something new and very different to the Irish family holiday scene, and is also introducing a whole new market to this undervisited Hidden Heartlands county.
Situated in 400 acres of woodland near Ballymahon - an attractive small town on the Royal Canal - this family destination opened in 2019, aiming to bring the experience of the international Center Parcs brand to Ireland. It is impressively designed and appointed and, although perceived as expensive, they know what families are looking for, so it was a success from the start. Very big by Irish standards, it includes Ireland's largest water park and can accommodate up to 2,500 guests in its 466 self-catering lodges and 30 apartments, so it is no wonder that they need you to be very organised and pre-book as much as possible before arrival.
The resort's 'village centre' includes a well-supplied Parc Market shop that stocks everything needed for living independently at your lodge or apartment, but any meals that you want to take in the seven themed restaurants must be pre-booked. And, because nothing is free - apart from the superb domed swimming pool (which has a wave machine and indoor/outdoor areas), a few playparks and the option of walking in the beautiful forest - you also need to book your choices from the dozens of paid indoor and outdoor activities on offer.
The accommodation is excellent and offered in various sizes, mainly sleeping anything from two to eight and with well equipped kitchens, private patios and barbecue areas, log burning fireplaces, very comfortable beds and good bathrooms with overbath showers/separate shower rooms - but, as a gesture towards the environment, a very limited amount of toiletries. 'Executive' and 'Exclusive' lodges include extras such as housekeeping services, and some even have a games room, sauna/steam room and an outdoor hot tub. Even better for many families, perhaps, some of the lodges are pet-friendly and you can book in a maximum of two dogs (an extra charge applies).
When it comes to food, Center Parcs is a wordwide name and they want the experience to be the same everywhere. So, while the food offerings are fine, there are few local ingredients listed on menus which may be disappointing for many guests who expect the pride in local produce that is now so much of the Irish holiday experience. However, while some of the restaurants are better than others (the most stylish food and surroundings are at the Asian fusion, Rajanda Pradesh; the Bella Italia offering is on a par with other good pizzerias; and Cara's offers a very extensive breakfast menu), the staff everywhere are friendly and well-trained.
So, all round, Center Parcs delivers on its promise and is a good option for families, with endless opportunities for exciting activities for all ages - but make sure to plan ahead to get the very best from your stay and to avoid unnecessary costs, such as the 2 euro charge for towels at the swimming pool. And, while resorts like Center Parcs do everything possible to keep guests on-site, do allow some time to explore the area and to visit nearby Ballymahon, where you will find a fine restaurant (Nine Arches), and an intriguing pub (Skelly's) among other good things.
